The Marcha Gait

The Mangalarga Marchador is fast and smooth, with a natural amble known as the Marcha for which the breed is named. The feet move alternately lateral and diagonally. When there is more time spent in lateral pairs, it is called Marcha Picada (like the sauce). It is often described as a broken pace. Where there is more time spent in diagonal pairs, it is called Marcha Batida (ba chee da). It is often described as a broken trot. In recent years, although not yet recognized as a separate and distinct marcha, there has been a third category describing where the movements diagonal and lateral are equal, and it is called Marcha de Centro.

Trot____D3___D2___D1___Center____L1___L2___L3_____Pace

Marcha Batida (D1-D3) Marcha Picada (L1-L3)

In all of the marcha gaits, due to the moments of triple hoof support and always having one foot on the ground, there is no upward bounce or total suspension in the air as with a trot or pace. Thus, the rider feels secure and comfortable. The marcha can reach speeds of 14-18km per hour without breaking gait.

Which is better? The marcha picada is sometimes considered the smoother of the marching gaits and the marcha batida the more athletic of the two marching gaits. But, the gait you prefer is often a personal choice and may be influenced by the discipline you pursue or the terrain where you ride.

Elo Kafe da Nova is an ELITE book stallion, a national champion and a top reproducer in Brasil. Also in the video are some of his get (filho). National Grand Champion 2005 National Champion Stallion Reproducer 2007–2008

Marcha Picada
SW Future Foal mare Elba Cruzalta (Bella)

Stallion from Haras da Marcha

Marcha Batida & Marcha Picada
Listen to the difference. Often if you can hear marcha picada even if your eyes deceive you.